Along the tropical coastline, the Mackay Multisport Festival offers a range of events including triathlon, duathlon, aquathlon, aquabike, and kids racing. The swim is notable: open ocean water with the "clarity and warmth of the Coral Sea," followed by a bike leg on controlled roads and a run that stays near the coast.
The course is straightforward yet engaging: flat-to-rolling, a closed-cycle bike route for a "safer and smoother ride," and coastal paths with "views of the turquoise water" and the surrounding tropical landscape. It accommodates beginners, first-timers, relay teams, and competitive athletes, with substantial age group cash prize pools for top finishers. A local contribution is that $5.00 from every entry supports Ronald McDonald House Charities Northern Region.